A young woman was left in tears after completing her first day at a traditional 9-5 job, sharing her experience online and sparking a viral conversation on work-life balance and job expectations. Starting that first job after college is a major life transition, one that can bring a mixture of excitement, anxiety, and uncertainty. For Brielle, a recent graduate, her first day at work proved to be an emotional experience.

Known as @brielleybelly123 on TikTok, Brielle shared her raw feelings in a video that quickly went viral. In the video, she included text saying, “QOTD (question of the day): in a 9-5 how do you have time for your life?” Her caption added, “I’m also getting sick, leave me alone. I’m emotional, OK. I feel 12 and I’m scared of not having time to live.” The video resonated with many who have struggled with the demands of balancing work and personal life.

Mixed Reactions from Viewers

Brielle’s video struck a chord, and many viewers related to her feelings of overwhelm. One commenter wrote, “The 40-hour work week is beyond outdated, and your feelings are totally valid.” Another added, “You’re not alone. It’s insane how legit your entire day is gone. This is why we need 4-day work weeks.” A third person agreed, saying, “It’s so repetitive and depressing, I feel you, girl.”

Other commenters shared similar experiences, especially from their early post-college years. “This is exactly how I felt when I was 22 after graduating college,” wrote one viewer. “I’m 28 now. You will adjust. Also, having a job you’re passionate about helps.” The supportive responses offered a sense of camaraderie, as many could empathize with Brielle’s struggle to adapt to the 9-5 structure.

However, some responses were less sympathetic. One person commented, “Aww, welcome to adulthood,” while another added, “I guess I was brought up in a different generation. That is life.” Another user chimed in with their own grueling routine, saying, “I work 4 am to 7 pm or longer. Still make dinner, run, and go to the gym.”

The Reality of Commuting and the 9-5 Lifestyle

In her video, Brielle explained the challenges of adjusting to her new job, particularly the difficulty of a long commute. Her job required her to be in-person, which meant traveling into the city—a process she described as taking “f***ing forever.” Brielle ruled out moving closer due to the high cost of city living, further adding to her frustration.

@thebearnews women is upset over working a 9 to 5 job. #work #women #college #9to5 #genz #foryou ♬ Very Sad – Enchan

“If I was able to walk to work, it wouldn’t be an issue,” Brielle said. “I get on the train at 7:30 and don’t get home until 6:15 at the earliest.” Her daily commute left her with little time outside of work. She explained that her day now consisted of just enough time to shower, eat dinner, and go to sleep, repeating the cycle the next day.

Through tears, Brielle clarified that her frustration wasn’t directed at her job itself but at the 9-5 lifestyle that left her feeling trapped. “If it was remote, you get off at five, and you’re home, and everything is fine. But I’m not home—it takes me so long to get home,” she explained.

A Call for Change in Work Culture

Following the viral success of her video, Brielle spoke to The Independent, expressing her view that the traditional 40-hour work week is outdated and calling for change. “I want to be able to talk for this next generation and explain that a 40-hour work week plus commute is not necessary for productivity,” she shared. Brielle hopes that more companies will consider adopting flexible work models, similar to those in other countries where shorter work weeks are gaining traction.

Facing a New Setback: Job Loss

In an unexpected turn of events, Brielle later posted an update revealing that she had been let go from her job just months after her first viral video. In a new TikTok video, she captioned, “Can someone tell me I’m going to be OK!!!! Feels like the world is ending. I need a job immediately. I am feeling so lost right now, like I moved for this…?!”

Brielle went on to express her disappointment, sharing how this experience affected her confidence. “I’m not going to sit here and cry, but I got laid off from my first post-grad job—the one that took me five months to find, and I moved to New York City for.” She explained that the experience made her feel inadequate, even though she knew her worth. “It’s so disappointing. It makes you feel like you’re not good enough, and I know that I am.”

Despite her setback, she remained hopeful, noting that her former boss had praised her hard work, calling her one of the smartest people he’d worked with and encouraging her that she would land on her feet. Brielle shared her frustration at feeling she had done everything right to secure her career. “I have a degree—I’ve done everything I’m supposed to do: I did two internships, I built a portfolio, I worked freelance out of school because I was building my portfolio. I did things for free. I have done everything I possibly could have, and it’s still not enough.”

A New Beginning: Finding a New Job

Fortunately, Brielle’s story did not end there. After facing the highs and lows of her first post-college job, she later shared an update with her followers, announcing that she had found a new job. Her update brought relief and joy to many followers who had watched her journey, with several sending messages of encouragement and support.

Reflecting on the Debate Around Work-Life Balance

Brielle’s story has come to represent the ongoing debate surrounding work-life balance, commuting challenges, and the demands of a standard 9-5 job. For many young professionals, her experience sheds light on the challenges of entering a job market that can feel rigid and demanding. As more companies consider flexible working arrangements, Brielle’s story resonates with those who seek a more balanced approach to their professional lives.

Her experience has sparked a broader conversation about whether traditional work expectations align with modern lifestyles. For many, her story serves as a reminder of the unique struggles faced by today’s graduates as they navigate their careers. In sharing her journey, Brielle has brought attention to an issue that affects countless young workers, and her resilience continues to inspire others facing similar challenges.

Through her story, Brielle has become an advocate for a new generation’s work-life aspirations, reflecting a desire for careers that offer both personal fulfillment and flexibility. Her journey continues to resonate with those who are looking to balance their personal and professional lives in today’s fast-paced world